September’s Life Insurance Awareness Month designed to educate consumers

Special to Topsail Advertiser

Thursday

Sep 12, 2013 at 12:01 AMSep 12, 2013 at 5:56 PM

Many Americans believe life insurance is important, but do they have enough?

Many Americans believe life insurance is important, but do they have enough?

According to the LIFE Foundation, 85 percent of Americans say most people need life insurance, but only 62 percent have coverage. And 33 percent admit they don’t have enough.

“There is a gap between understanding the need for life insurance and taking the step to get coverage,” says Jo Adcock, a local financial representative for Modern Woodmen of America. “It’s something we don’t like to think about, but it ensures that your loved ones are provided for after your death.”

Funeral costs can easily exceed $10,000, according to the Federal Trade Commission. But Social Security only pays a lump-sum death benefit of $255 to qualifying individuals. Life insurance can provide peace of mind for those left behind. The income tax-free benefit provides cash to families to help pay for funeral and other final expenses, help pay off their mortgage or other debt, and help provide an ongoing income to survivors so they can maintain their way of life.

“I was widowed and left with three pre-teens. I truly know the value of being prepared for the unexpected, with life insurance,” Adcock said.

September is Life Insurance Awareness Month, designed to raise awareness and educate consumers about the importance of life insurance coverage and the financial services representatives trained to help consumers meet their needs. Life insurance organizations and their representatives observe the occasion by providing information and activities regarding the role of life insurance in a sound financial plan.

“September is a perfect time to re-evaluate your personal situation,” says Adcock. “This is what a financial representative does — helps you decide on the appropriate amount of coverage to meet your specific needs.”

Modern Woodmen members and others can find life insurance information and planning calculators online at modern-woodmen.org. Or, contact Adcock at 910-270-5337 or Joanne.M.Adcock@mwarep.org to schedule a free life insurance analysis with no obligation.

Founded in 1883, Modern Woodmen of America touches lives and secures futures. The fraternal financial services organization offers financial services and fraternal member benefits to individuals and families throughout the United States.